Do you have a favorite podcast you love to listen to whenever you can? I personally love The Mel Robbins Podcast, and recently, I listened to an episode titled Try This Today: 6 Small Ways to Have More Fun Even When Life Feels Hard. Something about this episode has really stuck with me and it’s the inspiration for this blog post (I highly recommend listening!).

How to have more fun in life — YES! This topic ties so closely to why I started The All Nice. There’s so much stress, anxiety, and negativity in the world, and I wanted to create a space that spreads happiness, positivity, joy, and a little FUN too! So let’s talk about how to bring more fun into our lives. Here are six ways to have more fun (even when things feel hard).

1. Create a List of Little Things That Bring You Joy

Sometimes, the simplest things make the biggest difference. Find your favorite journal (I love the Blue Sky journals) and create a “joy list” that helps you remember those small things that lift your spirits — and inspires you to add more of them into your days. Here are a few ideas to get started:

• Drink your morning coffee out of your favorite bright-colored mug (bonus points if it has a happy saying).
• Pick your favorite pen when you get to work — or buy pens that match your outfits (yes, I do this!).
• Take yourself out for lunch or grab your favorite drink to-go.
• Go for a walk in your favorite park or neighborhood.
• Take 30 minutes to watch your favorite show — guilt-free.

Write down five little things that bring you joy and commit to doing at least one each day.

2. Change Up Your Meals

Food brings us joy — so why not have fun with it? If you’ve been stuck in a meal routine, try adding creativity and playfulness to your cooking. Here are a few ideas:

• Have a make-your-own pizza night with the family.
• Try making your own pasta.
• Experiment with new recipes or flavor combinations.
• Mix up your marinades and sauces.
• Play “Chopped” at home — use what’s already in your fridge to create something new!

Cooking together or experimenting solo can turn mealtime into a fun, creative outlet — not just a chore.

3. Try a New Workout or Move Your Body in a New Way

We all get into our routines and sometimes we need to try something new to mix things up. And exercise is no different! Here are some ways to shake things up:

• Take a dance or Zumba class — it’s impossible not to smile.
• Go for a hike or long walk in nature.
• Try a new yoga, barre, or Pilates class.
• Check out a new sport like pickleball.
• Try a rebounder mini trampoline — it’s amazing for your lymphatic system and guaranteed to make you laugh.

When you find movement you enjoy, exercise becomes something you look forward to and can bring the fun!

4. Plan Something Social — Don’t Wait for the Invite

Fun often happens when we’re with others — and sometimes, all it takes is you making the first move. Here are a few ideas for creating connection and joy:

• Host a game night or trivia night at home.
• See a local theater production or concert.
• Go bowling or head to bingo with friends or family.
• Try a new restaurant or coffee shop together.
• Invite someone new to join — you might make a new friend!

Don’t wait for someone to reach out — be the one who starts the fun.

5. Remove Something from Your Calendar

We live in a culture that glorifies “busy,” but sometimes, the most joyful thing you can do is nothing at all. Try leaving space for rest and unscheduled fun:

• Bake cookies just because.
• Watch a movie with popcorn (and no phone scrolling).
• Color, draw, or craft — solo or with your kids.
• Play a board game or put together a puzzle.
• Call someone you haven’t talked to in a while — just to catch up.

Slowing down isn’t laziness — it’s how you recharge your joy and can add a little fun to your life.

6. Add a Little Kindness Wherever You Go

Kindness creates instant joy — both for you and those around you. It’s also one of the easiest ways to make life a little more meaningful. Try these simple acts of kindness:

• Leave fun notes for coworkers, family, or friends.
• Pay for someone’s coffee behind you in line.
• Give a compliment — tell someone they look great in that color.
• Smile and say hello to a stranger.
• Tell a cute joke to bring a smile to someone’s face.

The ripple effect of kindness is powerful — it brightens your day while uplifting someone else’s.

Let’s Bring the Fun Back

We all need more laughter, joy, and lighthearted moments in our lives. Let’s choose to smile more, be kind more often, and find the fun — even in the little things. You only get one life — so let’s make it a joyful one.

I would love to hear your additional ideas of how to “bring the fun back” to our lives! Comment below with things that bring you and your families joy!

Disclaimer: I’m not a licensed therapist, medical professional, nutritionist, or fitness expert. The thoughts and tips shared here are based on my own experiences and are meant for general inspiration. Always consult a qualified professional if you need personal or nutritional advice or support. This post contains some affiliate links for your research or shopping convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. 

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